The picture was snapped by Peter Jones, a lecturer in urban history at the IHR, but it was the caption and resulting jokes and puns which drew history Twitter’s approval amid concern for cherished books.

Oh no! Are there any classicists nearby who can advise on a suitable sacrifice?

Turns out the cause of the new water feature in Senate House was a blocked pipe somewhere high up in the building.

Although the picture looks like the water is falling from the ceiling, it was actually bursting from the floor like a geyser, and looping back to earth.

A few books suffered a little water damage, although nothing permanent – a little rippling of pages.

Update: the ace @IHR_Library team has swept into action to protect the basement from further flooding. Only a few books got a bit wet. Most of our collection is fine and dandy. pic.twitter.com/I4qcJqvSXa